Northwest Philly church helps students start school year off on the right foot with backpack giveaway

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — It was an early morning for Barbara Williams and others helping give away thousands of backpacks at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church in Northwest Philadelphia Saturday.

“Well, some of us started at 6 a.m., and there were people preparing at 4 a.m.,” Williams said.

Pastor Alyn Waller says it took about two months to assemble the 2,000 bags loaded with supplies.

“Our congregation buys the bags and then individuals in the congregation buy the supplies so that we outfit every child in our area with what the school system says they need to have a positive and productive year,” Waller said, adding that it’s a “holistic approach” in making sure students have the best academic experience possible.

Waller says as many as 2,500 people were able to get school supplies, haircuts, medical examinations and more.

Alicia Goodman said it was nice seeing the church help the community.

“I’m overwhelmed by the generosity of this church. I’m so happy that they’re praying for the children’s success and I’m happy that so many people are going to be blessed by this presentation of love.”

Enon Tabernacle has given away 20,000 school bags since starting this annual event.